Meet Imani/ Pink Smith of Hawthorne,Ca

Today we’d like to introduce you to Imani/ Pink Smith.

Hi imani/ Pink, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’m Imani Smith, better known as Pink! I’m 25 years old, born and raised in South Central Los Angeles.

My love for pink started LONG before PinksVision was even a thought. Growing up, I used to throw tantrums because I wanted to wear my favorite color EVERY single day. My mom thought it was just a phase, but little did she know my love for pink would eventually become a part of everything I do!

I’ve always been a very artsy person, from painting and drawing to training in ballet, jazz, contemporary, and hip-hop. I danced throughout middle school at Marina del Rey and continued at Hamilton High School. Unfortunately, severe injuries forced me to step away from dance, but that’s when I fell in love with photography.

I took every photography class my high school offered and eventually dual-enrolled at Santa Monica College. I was only one class away from finishing when COVID hit in 2020, making it difficult to continue.

Instead, I poured my creativity into another passion of mine, MAKEUP! I had already built a monetized YouTube channel throughout high school, so I decided to create something of my own.

That’s when PinksVision came to life!

I originally created a photography-themed makeup brand, selling 25mm lashes in camera-themed cases and homemade lip glosses. As the world reopened, life got REAL, and I found myself juggling more responsibilities. Although I didn’t relaunch my physical products, I never stopped creating.

I also gained professional photography experience working with FromHeavensView from 2020 to 2022, which helped me continue developing my skills behind the camera.

Fast-forward to today, I’ve recently reopened my photography services and combined them with my makeup artistry! After years of being a self-taught makeup artist, I’m now an esthetician student at El Camino College, expected to graduate in June 2027.

My ultimate goal is to offer a full glam experience, from skincare and makeup to capturing those beautiful moments behind my camera. Whether it’s a birthday, wedding, event, or simply a day you want to feel beautiful, I want to bring that experience right to your doorstep!

It’s crazy to think that a little girl who refused to wear anything but pink would eventually build a brand around everything she loves.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There is no smooth road to success, in my opinion. As much as I would love to wake up and create all day, bills don’t stop coming just because you have a dream! Between working a full-time job to support myself, attending school, and building PinksVision, I’ve definitely had to make sacrifices. One thing I take pride in is that I’ve taught myself every skill I’ve pursued before ever stepping into a classroom to further my education. It hasn’t always been easy balancing my passions with everyday responsibilities, but one thing about me? I WON’T QUIT! I’ve learned that taking a break doesn’t mean giving up, and starting over doesn’t mean starting from nothing.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
PinksVision originally got its name from using a pink lens over my camera lens, which inspired my vibrant and colorful photography style! Today, I specialize in private makeover experiences, from creative direction and makeup artistry to photography setup and editing the final images. What sets me apart is my ability to bring an entire vision to life, not just one part of it! I’m most proud of being able to combine my passions into one business, and I plan to eventually incorporate hairstyling to offer the full glam experience. My goal is simple: you bring the vision, and I bring it to life!

Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
My days are always busy and hectic, but I ALWAYS have time for one AirPod in my ear and some positive affirmations! I love listening to podcasts that focus on self-love, growth, and motivation. Some of my favorites are Self Care and Chill with Maui, Slay Girl Slay by Ashley Leggs, She’s So Lucky, Mindset Magic & Manifestation by Mikayla Jai, Million Dollaz Worth of Game, and Affirmations for Black Girls. Whether I’m working, getting ready, or running errands, I try to surround myself with things that keep me motivated and remind me to keep going!

Pricing:

• Soft Glam Makeup starting at $65
• Creative Glam Makeup starting at $90
• Glam & Photoshoot Package starting at $250
• Photoshoot Sessions starting $160

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.pinksvision.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pinksvision?stkn=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@pinksvision?si=ZpcqexBEVRxf7t1v
• Other: https://pinksvisionappointments.as.me/

Image Credits
pinksvision photography, showing @ golden562 Makeup and photography by pinksvision

santabarbaraphoto action shots
https://www.instagram.com/santabarbaraphoto?stkn=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==